Hugh Jackman has been trying to get a film about showman P.T. Barnum made for years now. It's seemingly been stuck in development all this time, despite nabbing a director (Michael Gracey) and the star power of Jackman pushing it forward. He's hoping it'll get a new lease on active life with word that Zac Efron is in talks to co-star in The Greatest Showman On Earth.
Barnum's life is one of spectacle and deception, and he was the creator of the famous three-ring Barnum & Bailey Circus. Before that, he was an impresario touring the circuit with various acts.
This one has been on Jackman's To Do list since at least 2009, when he hosted the Oscars and worked with show producer Laurence Mark and former Sex And The City writer Jenny Bicks, who contributed material to the awards gala’s script. Animation and effects veteran Gracey was hired in 2011.
There's no indication yet what Efron might be playing in the film, and it's still in negotiations, so he's not a definite part of it in any regards. Still, he has just worked with Fox on Mike And Dave Need Wedding Dates (out here on August 12) and will also be seen in next year's Baywatch movie.